Matchday Europe

Spain's time has arrived but will German fortitude prevail again in a major tournament?

2:45 p.m., ABC.

What does David Beckham think? Here is what he told me at the team hotel last night:

"I like both teams, I like both countries. I respect Germany because they are always there, or thereabouts, in big competitions and you can never doubt any German side you come up against. But my heart will be with Spain. Spending so much time there, four good years, being around the people, I know what it would mean to Spain as a country and they are so passionate about the game. I also have friends on that team, so for me, I would love to see Spain win that game."

If any European ever disparages American pre-game and halftime performances, mention to him the spinning balloon tepees of Euro2008 and the trampolining honey bees of WC1998. And what are those Marie Antionette-looking women doing? Bring out the guillotine.